Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geospatial technology is in high demand in many fields. The spatial perspective and skills at the core of GIS are essential for understanding the variety of social, economic, and environmental issues that confront us at local, regional, and global scales.
Mapping spatial relationships between human and environmental phenomena is critical to understanding contemporary issues and identifying successful strategies to resolve complex problems. The course of study to acquire a minor in GIS will provide many majors with complementary skills that will enhance employment opportunities.
The GIS Minor offers students opportunities to interact with geography faculty members face to face or through online learning. Many of the GIS courses can be taken partially online and some courses are offered fully online.
Many public agencies in the Portland metropolitan region recognize the importance of this analytical tool, have GIS capacity, and need trained practitioners. The U.S. Department of Labor has identified GIS and geospatial technology as a field in high demand with excellent job opportunities.
Upon completing the GIS Minor, you can expand your career opportunities in the public and private sectors, in such diverse fields as natural resource management, urban planning, conservation, data analytics, and utilities. The GIS courses offered as part of the GIS Minor count toward the national professional GIS certification programs. These programs include the GISP (Certified GIS Professional) certification administered by the GIS Certification Institute and the certification programs by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS).